Uttrakhand which is located in the north part of India is a perfect example of the beauty of nature, it is home for mountains, rivers, forests, flora, and faunas and this has turned the state as one of the favorite tourist destinations in India since ancient times. Hundreds of pilgrim centers are situated in the state and it represents the ancient Indian culture and tradition. The state is also rich with all kinds of natural resources and you can also make your stay comfortable in Hotel and resort in Garhwal Himalayas. The knowledge of our ancient Yoga and Ayurveda is preserved making our country feel great. Thinking about tourism in the Uttrakhand, a lot of places are there to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty. If you have not visited yet, plan for a long vacation in Uttrakhand along with your family or friends, and do not forget to try some of the adventurous activities mentioned below to make your trip memorable:

1. Trekking and Hiking in The Himalayas

Trekking in The Himalayas will be a great experience with your groups. Though the trek is not easy but also not impossible. A lot of research has to be done before beginning the trek as some trekking routes are easy and some are difficult to go ahead due to the variation in the height of the cliff. Below are some trekking routes in Uttrakhand:

• ● Kedartal Trek(Located in the Gangotri area of the Garhwal Himalayas) This has an altitude of about 16,110 feet with moderate difficulty with an average duration of 7 days and best suited in the months of May-June and September-October.
• ● Rupin Pass Trek(Located near Dhaula) This has an altitude of about 15,250 feet with moderate difficulty with an average duration of 8 days and best suited in the months of May-June and September-October.
• ● Kedarkanth Trek(Start from Sankri village) This has an altitude of about 12,500 feet with an easy difficulty level with an average duration of 5 days and best suited in the months from December to April.
• ● Bali Pass Trek This has an altitude of about 16,250 feet with high difficulty level with an average duration of 9 days and best suited in the summer months of May-June and September-October.
• ● Auden’s Col Trek(Commences from Gangotri) This has an altitude of about 18,020 feet with a very high difficulty level with an average duration of 16 days and best suited in the summer months and post-monsoon September-October. This route is considered to be a very difficult and challenging one as woodlands, snow peaks, and glaciers are found in this route.
• ● Har Ki Dun Trek This has an altitude of about 11,500 feet with an easy difficulty level with an average duration of 7 days and best suited in the months of March-June and September-December. This route is one of the easiest trekking routes in Uttrakhand.
• ● Satopanth Lake Trek This has an altitude of about 14,600 feet with moderate difficulty with an average duration of 8 days and best suited in the months of June, September, and December.
• ● Valley of Flowers Trek(a UNESCO Heritage Site) This has an altitude of about 14,200 feet with an easy difficulty level with an average duration of 5 days and best suited in the months of June-October.
• ● Brahmatal Trek This has an altitude of about 19,520 feet with a very high difficulty level with an average duration of 15 days and best suited in the months of June-September.

You will find good number of Resort for Trekking and Hiking and also they will make your stay comfortable.

1. Paragliding

Paragliding is a kind of sport that is associated with flying from a height. Mussoorie, Naukuchiatal in Nainital, Pithoragarh, BedniBugyal in Kumaon, and Pratap Nagar are the best places for paragliding in Uttrakhand. This sport is not suited for all, as some people fear from heights.

3. Skiing

Skiing is the movement by sliding on snow using the skis. Auli, Betulidhar, DayaraBugyal, Kedarnath trek, Khaliya Top, Mundali are the important skiing destinations in Uttarakhand.

4. White Water Rafting

Rafting is a kind of outdoor activity that involves navigating a river or any water bodies. Byasi, Devprayag, Mori, Rishikesh, and Shivpuri are famous white water rafting places in Uttrakhand. One will get luxurious Hotel and Resort near Gangotri with all the modern facilities.

5. Camping

Camping is an activity carried out for self-relaxation involving an overnight stay in a tent or temporary shelter away from home. Shivpuri, Nainital, Rishikesh, Kanatal, Deoria Tal, Corbett, Auli, Chopta, Dhanaaulti, Binsar, Pangot, Jharipani, Chaukori, DayaraBugryal, BedniBugyal, Nag Tibba, Dodital, Sattal are the famous camping spots in Uttrakhand.

6. Elephant Safari

Elephant safari, an amazingly awesome experience in Uttarakhand. Bijrani, Corbett National Park, Dhikala, Durga Devi Gate, Jhirna, Kalagarh Gate, Rajaji Tiger Reserve, Ramnagar, Sonanadi Wildlife Sanctuary and Vatanvasa Gate are some famous place for elephant safari.

7. Rappelling

Rappelling is a form of controlled descending using a rope from a vertical point such as a rock face on a tall cliff. The mountains suited for rappelling are located in Bageshwar, Pithoragarh, Rudraprayag, Dehradun, Uttarkashi, Haridwar, TehriGarhwal, Almora, Udham Singh Nagar districts of Uttrakhand.

8. Giant Swing

The giant swing is an activity of swinging on a metallic wire and moving slowly from one place to another, both located at certain heights. Rishikesh is the most popular place in Uttrakhand for giant swing.

9. Cable Car Ride

The cable car ride gives you a fantastic aerial view of a mountain, rivers, farms from the top. Aerial Ropeway Nainital, Auli, Dehradun-Mussoorie Ropeway, Haridwar, and Sahastradhara are the top places for a cable car ride in Uttrakhand.

10. Bungee Jumping

Bungee jumping is an activity that involves jumping from a great height with a large elastic cord tied to the body. The jump may be from a cliff, tall building, bridge, etc. Rishikesh is a famous place for bungee jumping in Uttarakhand.

Uttarakhand, circumscribed by Nepal and Tibet, and shadowed by transcending Himalayan pinnacles, is brimming with pristine normal magnificence. It’s isolated into two locales – Garhwal in the north, and Kumaon in the south. Old heavenly puts, mountains, woods and valleys, and a plenitude of trekking alternatives are a portion of the attractions that make travel to Uttarakhand beneficial. Look at these top vacationer puts in Uttarakhand for motivation.
Uttarakhand is likewise a phenomenal spot to get off the beaten track. In case you’re searching for natural air and quietness, you’ll cherish a portion of these boutique Himalayan escapes.
This is our list of Top Tourist Attractions in Uttarakhand!

1. Har Ki DunHar ki Dun, situated at an altitude of 11679 feet, is rated to be a moderately difficult trek. The Har Ki Dun Trek offers a wonderful experience like no other to trekkers. Situated in the Western Ganges of the Garhwal Himalayas, the cradle shaped valley of Har Ki Dun is also known as the Hanging Valley of the Gods.The Har Ki Dun Trek offers you not only a scenic trek across the Himalayas but also a chance to learn a little more about the fascinating culture of this region. Very interestingly, the deity worshipped by inhabitants of this region is Duryodhana – the Kaurawa cousin of the Pandavas. Hindu mythology also suggests that Har Ki Dun is the place from where the Pandavas ascended to heaven, adding an additional element of intrigue to this region. The culture in Har Ki Dun is quite different from anywhere else in India, with the inhabitants still practising polygamy as a sanctioned custom.The Har Ki Dun trek is a route full of untouched beauties and a view that is completely worth the journey. This 8-day long trek is moderately difficult, making it suitable for beginners as well as more seasoned trekkers. The best time for this Himalayan trek is either between March to June, or September to mid-November.
2. Corbett National ParkThe Corbett National Park – named after Jim Corbett, the former hunter turned conservationist – is one of India’s most popular national parks. Boasting of lush and dense forest and diverse wildlife, the Corbett National Park can be explored either by Jeep or Elephant Safari, both of which happen daily, early in the morning, in the afternoon as well.The Dhikala zone of the park offers a beautiful view of the breathtaking valley below it, and – if you’re lucky – offers a great vantage point for wildlife sighting!
3. HaridwarHaridwar – translating to “Gateway to God” – is one of the seven holiest places in India, and is a frequent destination for many pilgrims. Haridwar is an ancient city and is where the Ganga exits the Himalayan foothills. People from all over the world come to Haridwar to take a dip in the River Ganga, to wash away their sins and cleanse themselves. Haridwar is also home to an array of gorgeous ancient temples, the Ganga Arti in Har Ki Pauri being especially significant and special.Apart from this, Haridwar itself is a stunning beauty to behold, located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It offers a range of activities such as shopping in the local bazaars, wildlife safaris and Rajaji National Park, etc., being just a few of them. Haridwar is also extremely close to other popular spots like Rishikesh, making it convenient for those looking to extend their trip a little further.
4. RishikeshRishikesh, situated not too far from Haridwar, is another popular pilgrimage spot. However, Rishikesh – known as the birthplace of yoga – is a favourite destination not just for Hindu pilgrims, unlike Haridwar, but also for western spiritual seekers. People flock in huge numbers to Rishikesh to practise yoga, meditate, and learn about Hinduism and its various aspects. Many often choose to stay in one of the plethoras of available ashrams and yoga institutes to further their knowledge of the same. Despite the large number of people flocking to Rishikesh, it is seemingly untouched by all the tourism and still maintains its quaint charm.Rishikesh is also a beautiful place to find serenity and tranquillity – even for the not-so-spiritual, making it an ideal getaway if you’re looking to rest and recuperate.

Tucked near the more level districts of the Himalayas, Dehradun maybe that money city for Uttarakhand. It is that acclaimed way towards those slant station from claiming Mussoorie. Due to its salubrious atmosphere, sightseers visit Dehradun for those whole quite a while What's more research great referred to spots like Kempty falls What's more Robber's hole. For any case, would you understand that you camwood eyewitness untamed term to Dehradun? Truly! the city similarly holds a part of the acclaimed untamed life havens Also national parks. In the occasion that you didn't realize something like this, at that perspective here need aid a part of the great known spots the place you might explore the best characteristic an aggregation in Dehradun. 1. Rajaji tiger saves Also national park. Settled in the middle of the Shivalik extends Furthermore near the bring down districts of the Himalayas, Rajaji national park is a tiger save which will be spread over a district for 820 sq. Km. Done Dehradun, Pauri Garhwal, Also Haridwar. After Jim Corbett, this stop will be those resulting tiger spare done Uttarakhand. This national park might have been climbed by combining three regular existence havens, Rajaji, Chilla and Motichur done 1983 Also might have been named after the praised good fortune warrior, Sri c's. Rajagopalachari, Overall known as Rajaji. Same time there are 4 entryways of this stop (Motichur, Jhilmil, Chilla and Ranipur), that Chilla entryway will be to the A large portion piece favouring to entry. The national park holds a varying scope from claiming verdure for more than 300 winged creature species Furthermore 315 avian species. It may be home will Himalayan tolerate, samba deer, Himalayan Yellow-throated Marten, as a relatable point Krait, Himalayan-pied Kingfishers, screen Lizard, also how. Additionally, those streams moving through this park provides for the safe house on Different fish species similar to goonch Also child. Vacationers might select wild safaris inside those diversion focal point should research the verdure. Those best chance should visit this stop may be starting with December will Walk Similarly as it opens every year Around November What's more June. On the off opportunity that there are untamed existence aficionados who compelling reason on exploring regular life Previously, Dehradun, toward that perspective Rajaji national park is the spot will make. Address: 5/1, Ansari Road, Mohand Range, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001. 2. Assan torrent fledgeling haven. Set up clinched alongside 1967, Assan torrent fledgeling haven may be arranged toward that conjunction of Assan and Yamuna streams. This refuge is prevalently known as Dhalipur lake Also vacationers now and again visit it for flying animal sees. It blankets 53 sorts for flying animals and 19 from these species move from Eurasia in the winter season. A part of the transient sorts about winged animals fuse Pintail, Gadwall, red peaked tufted Duck, shoveller Also Brahminy duck. The flawless period with visit this safe house will be Around October Also December alternately in Walk and April. Aside from this, proficient winged creature watchers want a journey with Dehradun Around might and September Similarly as a couple of transient flying animals to make staying spot for exactly the long haul. To land at this asylum, you require to enrol a taxi dance specialist starting with Dehradun as it maybe 40 km far starting with the city. Address: Jhanda Mohalla, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001. 3. Benog untamed life asylum. Assembled dependent upon Previously, 1967, Assan torrent fledgeling haven will be arranged during the crossroads from claiming Assan Furthermore Yamuna waterways. This safe house is prominently known as Dhalipur lake Furthermore vacationers consistently visit it to flying animal sees. It blankets 53 sorts about winged animals Furthermore 19 from these species move starting with Eurasia in the winter season. A part of the transient sorts from claiming winged animals fuse Pintail, Gadwall, red peaked tufted Duck, shoveller What's more Brahminy duck. The immaculate the long haul will visit this refuge is "around October What's more December alternately to Walk Furthermore April. Aside from starting with this, proficient fowl watchers arrangement an excursion to Dehradun Around might and September as a couple of transient winged animals make a house for some run through. On land at this asylum, your compelling reason on getting An taxi dance lover starting with Dehradun Concerning illustration it maybe 40 km away from the city. Address: Jhanda Mohalla, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001. 4. Jabarkhet nature save. Jabarkhet way save (JNR) is private property yet it may be accessible of the general populace to examination. It provides for the safe house will regular life including frightening crawlies, vertebrates Also feathered animals. Around 100 winged creature species could be discovered All over in the off chance that you would unequivocally look to a Khaleej fowl, during that purpose my friend you have should try will Jnr. Aside starting with this, same time strolling on the trail you might try over lammergeier vultures, Himalayan Griffon, jaybirds, jays Also thrushes. On the off opportunity that you need aid going by in the late spring season, during that purpose you will well on the way see more than 300 assortments for blossoms in the field. Each season carries its precise own gloriousness for it along these lines there will be no immaculate run through to visit this spot. Previously, addition, there needs aid around 60 sorts of organic entities Furthermore mushrooms open in this save, crazy for which exactly need aid hurtful. At that perspective The point when over Mussoorie, recall fusing this sublime hold in your plan. Address: close to Bataghat, Dhanolti Road, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand 248122. 5. Malsi deer park. Malsi deer Park, An littler over the ordinary zoological park, will be a standout amongst the must-visit spots will explore untamed life On Dehradun. The spot is remarkable for sparing maybe the greatest masses of deer in the country. It blankets nilgai Also two-horned deer nearby other animal species such as peacocks Furthermore tigers. It need picked up reputation Similarly as a picnic spot alternately to gang journey due to An salubrious circumstances and delightful scene. It may be main 10 km away from Dehradun and could make successfully arrive at Toward method for the road. Regardless of the reality that Malsi deer stop might a chance to be visited All around that whole year, those best period will visit this spot may be "around April What's more July due to flawless environmental over slopes. Address: Diversion, Mussoorie Rd, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248009.

Uttarakhand is an oasis in the real world, replete with blooming forests, beautiful lakes, and breathtaking mountain ranges and quaint hamlets to explore. It has long since been a favourite destination for those looking to take a fun and adventurous Himalayan Trek, for those looking to make a pilgrimage of sorts, and for those just looking to take in the chill mountain air and take a break from the rigours of daily life.

1. Har Ki Dun

📷 Har ki Dun, situated at an altitude of 11679 feet, is rated to be a moderately difficult trek. The Har Ki Dun Trek offers a wonderful experience like no other to trekkers. Situated in the Western Ganges of the Garhwal Himalayas, the cradle shaped valley of Har Ki Dun is also known as the Hanging Valley of the Gods. The Har Ki Dun Trek offers you not only a scenic trek across the Himalayas, but also a chance to learn a little more about the fascinating culture of this region. Very interestingly, the deity worshipped by inhabitants of this region is Duryodhana - the Kaurawa cousin of the Pandavas. Hindu mythology also suggests that Har Ki Dun is the place from where the Pandavas ascended to heaven, adding an additional element of intrigue to this region. The culture in Har Ki Dun is quite different from anywhere else in India, with the inhabitants still practising polygamy as a sanctioned custom. The Har Ki Dun trek is a route full of untouched beauties and a view that is completely worth the journey. This 8 day long trek is moderately difficult, making it suitable for beginners as well as more seasoned trekkers. The best time for this Himalayan trek is either between March to June, or September to mid November.

1. Corbett National Park

📷 The Corbett National Park - named after Jim Corbett, former hunter turned conservationist - is one of India’s most popular national parks. Boasting of a lush and dense forest and diverse wildlife, the Corbett National Park can be explored either by Jeep or Elephant Safari, both of which happen daily, early in the morning and in the afternoon. The Dhikala zone of the park offers a beautiful view of the breathtaking valley below it, and - if you’re lucky - offers a great vantage point for wildlife sighting! Also Read - Tips for Travelling

1. Haridwar

📷 Haridwar - translating to “Gateway to God” - is one of the seven holiest places in India, and is a frequent destination for many pilgrims. Haridwar is an ancient city, and is where the Ganga exits the Himalayan foothills. People from all over the world come to Haridwar to take a dip in the River Ganga, to wash away their sins and cleanse themselves. Haridwar is also home to an array of gorgeous ancient temples, the Ganga Arti in Har Ki Pauri being especially significant and special. Apart from this, Haridwar itself is a stunning beauty to behold, located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It offers a range of activities such as shopping in the local bazars, wildlife safaris and Rajaji National Park, etc., being just a few of them. Haridwar is also extremely close to other popular spots like Rishikesh, making it convenient for those looking to extend their trip a little further.

1. Rishikesh

📷 Rishikesh, situated not too far from Haridwar, is another popular pilgrimage spot. However, Rishikesh - known as the birthplace of yoga - is a favourite destination not just for Hindu pilgrims, unlike Haridwar, but also for western spiritual seekers. People flock in huge numbers to Rishikesh to practice yoga, meditate, and learn about Hinduism and its various aspects. Many often choose to stay in one of the plethora of available ashrams and yoga institutes to further their knowledge of the same. Despite the large number of people flocking to Rishikesh, it is seemingly untouched by all the tourism, and still maintains its quaint charm. Rishikesh is also a beautiful place to find serenity and tranquility - even for the not-so-spiritual, making it an ideal getaway if you’re looking to rest and recuperate.

1. Mussoorie

📷 About an hour’s travel away from Dehradun - Uttarakhand’s capital - Mussoorie is a popular destination for tourists - especially those looking for honeymoon destinations in India. Offering an amazing view of the Himalayas, Mussoorie has many activities curated specifically for tourists. A beautiful nature’s walk down Camel’s Back Road, a horse ride up to Lal Tibba - the highest peak in Mussoori - or a picnic at Kempty Falls - Mussoori offers it all. This is a great place, whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or for something longer, with an array of activities to choose from. This makes it easy to customise your itinerary to make your trip the best one for you!

Arranged in north India, Uttarakhand is mainstream to its snow-clad mountains Furthermore green spreads which relieve your eyes Also revive your soul. Cool wind starting with mountains, delightful dusks Also neighbourhood indulgences of Uttarakhand makes it An immaculate spot to examination for way darlings. With examine this heavenly spot, you have will live in the middle for it. What’s more, to determine this issue, we need deciding A percentage stunning, suitability houses in Uttarakhand the place you might crash fast. Best of all, these bungalows manage those vital pleasantries provided for Eventually Tom's perusing their guests on An enchanting remain clinched alongside slopes. 1. Himalayan ECO LODGES MAJKHALI forested areas. In the chain of Himalayan Eco-Lodges, Majkhali forested areas will be those The majority late extension which will be arranged Previously, An delightful spot. The spot will be acclaimed Concerning illustration a standout amongst those cleanest and The greater part charming bits of the Himalayas. The lodge offers uncommon sights and also gutsy activities too. People picking this property could incorporate some contiguous spots to their plan similar to Almora, Jim Corbett National Park, Nainital, and Kausani. Address: Dida Avam Dida Chak, Uttarakhand 263652. 2. Knoll highest point swiss cabin. Roosted during the crest from claiming secondary bank clinched alongside Rishikesh, knoll highest point swiss cabin regards its guests with warm warmth. Aside from providing for stream standing up to rooms, it similarly offers An a lot for administrations What's more display day pleasantries such as television Also Wi-Fi for suitability remain. It isn’t far from Lakshman Furthermore ram Jhula, What's more, Rajaji national park. On endeavour the neighbourhood sustenance you might visit those German pastry shop and the desert garden restaurant contiguous. Toward the side of the point when over Rishikesh, you might settle on arranged activities similar to trekking, shake climbing, stream boating, Also nature stroll. 3. PAATLIDUN safari lodge. Spread in 13 areas for land, Paatlidun safari lodge may be orchestrated on the edge of the Corbett tiger save the park. Outfitted with 18 rooms of Different bungalows, this house to Uttarakhand need rooms to explain insides, vintage furniture, private pool, outside shower, Also agreeable sit-outs. You might decide them on the off possibility that you require on rest under An night sky What's more get up to An dewy morning. You camwood similarly like a rich and regular sustenance here Similarly as the lodge uses regular process created without anybody else’s information. Other than this, you camwood similarly fulfil your longing for Toward relishing true blue Kumaoni enjoyments Furthermore pizzas starting with a live counter. Slobbering through it Similarly as for now? during that point, recall choosing once this world-class house when orchestrating a journey will Jim Corbett national park. Address: Jim Corbett National Park, Mohan, Uttarakhand 244715. 4. AVAAS. Arranged in the middle of the pleasant surroundings about Ramgarh, AVAAS will be a standout amongst those indulgence houses for Nainital, Uttarakhand. This staying put picked dependent upon pervasiveness Around travellers Similarly as it provides for those best invitingness clinched alongside Nainital. To escape starting with the propelled fast-paced method for the existence of the city, you camwood pick this spot done Nainital the place you will get dependent upon hearing fowls tweeting in the initial and only the day. The thing that includes the claim about this spot will be fire lit suppers over sky consuming areas. The cabin may be in closeness should Tagore Top, Nainital Lake, Sattal Lake, What's more Mukteshwar. Address: Visarat Ganj, Ramgarh Rd, Ramgarh, Uttarakhand 263167. 5. WINDSOR COTTAGES. Arranged in the middle about oak trees have done Lansdowne, Windsor Cottages need standard building What's more insides which draw in voyagers should book their room here. On the off possibility that you necessity to appreciate in the lap about Himalayas 1700 meters over sea level, toward that purpose this is irrefutably the spot that you need aid seeking for. Aside from bungalows, we similarly provide for tents will people who have on experience nature every last one of that's only the tip of the iceberg intently. You could choose concerning a trek should contiguous town and timberland. A part of the close-by spots that you could undoubtedly explore need aid St. Mary’s Church, Bhulla Tal, regimental Museum, Bhairav Garhi sanctuary Furthermore regimental War dedication. Address: 1, close principle Market, JKL, Lansdowne, Uttarakhand 246174. 6. XRA cabin. Settled in the middle of fruit orchids What's more wild roses, this flawless property is orchestrated toward a stature from claiming 6,700 ft in Joshimath. XRA cabin may be a standout amongst those mossycup oak favouring houses done Auli, Uttarakhand Likewise guests need will a few duration of the time clinched alongside confinement Furthermore knowledge that tranquillity for nature. Those cabin tries to fulfil the necessities for their customers Eventually Tom's perusing giving fundamental luxuries to them. The rooms starting with its bungalows provide for a great viewpoint on the snow-clad mountains. Staggering extents such as Nandadevi, Neelkanth, Gori Trishul Also Dunagri could be accompanied starting with here. On treat your venturesome soul, you could revel in activities similar to shake climbing, outdoors, trekking, snow skiing, snow-boarding, What's more zorbing. Address: Auli Road, Lower Auli, close television Tower, Joshimath, Uttarakhand 246443. 7. BRIGADIERS cabin. Brigadiers cabin is a well-kept up cabin and a pet-accommodating homestay administered by Neetu, young lady in-law of the brigadier. The spot may be outstanding to its immaculate kitchen Furthermore rooms. Those flawless air What's more rich greenery will resuscitate both your soul Furthermore constitution. Same time remaining here, you camwood like An blaze, genius a grill Furthermore experience your day lose done your lounger. Other than this, you camwood research contiguous spots such as Kempty Falls, Benong national Park, particular organization Garden, weapon Hill, Furthermore Landour. Address: Kempty Falls, Lakhwad, Kempty, Mussoorie, Uttarakhand 248179.

April 20th 2015, The wildlife enthusiasts have a reason to cheer. The state Government after a long wait of about 30 years, has at last issued the final notification for the Rajaji National Park which consists of 9 ranges and is spread over 820.40 sq.km. of Haridwar, Pauriand Dehradun districts of Uttarakhand. The initial notification for the setting up of the Park under the Project Elephant was issued in 1983. However the final notification could not be issued since various hurdles had to be cleared. It may be recalled here that the Park, which marks the northern limits of the Asiatic elephant, is one of the safest heavens for jumbos in the country. At present, there are about 415 elephants in the Park and the male, female ratio is excellent.

Phulvati shyly extended a small intricately woven basket full of semi puffed rice, anandi, urging me to eat more. It was a splendid meal - replete with fresh sugarcane juice, thick curd and a dash of garlic-amla (Indian gooseberry) chilli paste, so simple and exquisite that I could not stop myself from asking for several helpings.
For pictures and maps of the region please visit https://www.geographyandyou.com/life/tribes/tharu-women-inhabiting-the-valley-of-don/
Washing my fingers near the motif-ladendoor I marvelled at the ingenuity of the Tharu people living within the deep jungles of the alleged Mao-infested Valmiki Tiger Reserve, West Champaran in Bihar. With land holdings ranging from mere 1 to 2 katthas, these people’s hand to mouth existence is evident. Yet the upkeep of their mud baked houses, well oiled hair, clean clothes and general appearance speak of higher cultural endowment.
Hospitality aside, the Tharu of the Naurangia village of Don are a quiet lot with almost every question thwarted with a pretty smile or a counter question. Unlike their tribal cousins some 25 odd kilometers away in the so called capital of Tharuvat at Harnatand, the Tharu of Samrahni and Naurangia in Don are tight lipped about most issues. Tharu tribe, as folklore tells us, apparently has its roots in Rajasthan.
It is said that some 400 years ago a noble lady eloped with her trusted servant leaving the desert sands to colonisethe mosquito infested terai. The myth justifies the higher social position of women within the Tharu, resulting in their greater autonomy in decision making, higher literacy as compared to their Bihari counterparts, and general well being. Interestingly, they pursue education and attend regular classes even after marriage - completely unheard of among non Tharu women in the vicinity.
The Tharu as a community is today scattered across the Himalayan foothills of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Bihar in India, and along the southern forested regions in Nepal. In Bihar, the Tharu settlements are concentrated in Harnatand - a flat stretch of about 45 square km, surrounded by the Don and Someshwar hills. Within the Valmiki Reserve Forest area, there are 25 Tharu dominated villages, largely agrarian in character.
Phulvati’s husband is a Nepalese and unlike a Tharu male – hardworking. Returning home to his toddler and wife every evening, tired and worn, he washes up meticulously for his evening meal.
As Phulvati’s busy fingers continued to wind loop after loop of colouredsabaigrass into a patterned basket, she recounted how she returned to work just the day after her marriage, tending to a near ripe paddy crop and fetching soil, cowdung and water for a fresh coat of motifs on the outer wall of her home. “We are supposed to earn and look after every need of our husbands, quite the opposite of the bajiyan, non Tharu living here. In fact in a traditional chant during our marriage, the bride beseeches the groom atop the roof of their nuptial home to consent for marriage, with a promise that she will work readily to feed and clothe him”, adds Phulvati.
Handicraft is her passion she insists, showing me the other items that she has painstakingly woven. Although she believes that marketing their craft would be a viable employment alternative, she finds few takers. As her peers gathered around, Phulvati withdrew into a shell, preferring to answer in monosyllables.
Rukmani, a young student returning home from the only girls' school in the vicinity, fanned the dying conversation with an interesting revelation about paddy cultivation similar to tribal traditions in Jharkhand. Certain proportion of the paddy cultivated is placed in a community granary, dharambakhar, a reserve from where the villagers can borrow, not for direct marketing or monetary benefits, but for household consumption. The only condition is that borrower has to return the borrowed quantity on an agreed upon date. Women, as is usual among this community, maintains the granary and its records. No Tharu, Rukmani proudly adds, goes hungry.
A religious lot, the Tharu women of Don are more Hindu than tribal, with Shivaratriand Dasseraoccupying a prominent place. Wearing the orange vermillion mark of marriage, the Tharuwomen sport accessories almost similar to their non Tharu counterparts. One significant difference in attire is the acceptance of salwarkameezas regular wear post marriage and the beaded neck pieces with silver or gold lockets, reminiscent of Nepali marriage norms.
Guffawing heartily, Ramavati, another Don inhabitant, added “I wear such clothes by choice, my husband never objects like the bajiyan men. Also wearing salwarkameezmakes it easier to cycle.” Cycling, I came to understand is the lifeline of this area. Every individual and perhaps even the toddlers are expert cyclists.
Moving around in bands, the women here adjust their day to day routine in such a manner that they are never alone, out in the wilderness, cycling. Although women emancipation appeared alive and kicking in this region, yet the norm of underage marriages was disquieting. By the time the girls are ten or twelve, marriage proposals are sought and the first child in most cases is born around fifteen.
Bhagmati has six children and most of the women in her age group have around four to eight children.Although the figures they claim are falling, but the rise in population to nearly 4000 households in these stressed environs is enough to cause substantive damage to the ecology of the area.
The dependency on their kin is such that despite lack of medical facilities, schools and markets, Tharu women belonging to these villages prefer to pull in their marriage partners to share their homes, rather than shift out to live with them. This phenomenon translates into a sharper rise in the population within. In this respect, the non Tharu population living within the forest precincts too behave in a similar fashion.
The Valmiki is the only Tiger Reserve in the State of Bihar covering 840 square km. For management purposes the forest is divided into two broad divisions, which is further divided into six ranges. The core area of the forest and the Valley of Don lies in Division Two,within the Harnatand Range.
Their share of fun is sadly sans culture.“Only last night”, gushed Jayavachan, “we had aCD show. More than three hundred people from around the area gathered. Such occasions are like night long festivities.” The CD show I gathered,was a movie and judging by their Bollywood knowledge, such arrangements where the CD player is brought in from beyond the forest boundaries for a night, seemed quite frequent. The crowd she added never turns rowdy, despite the fact that gadla, local brewed rice liquor, flows freely. These revenue villages within the forest area were traditionally rice growing. In recent times the shift is palpable with sugarcane dominating the landscape. A more water intensive option, sugarcane farming the Tharu say provides better remuneration than paddy.
Fig 4: Farmland in the midst of forested tracts, which may be seen at the periphery. | The Tharu are shifting from paddy farming to sugarcane farming, as it provides better remuneration.
Unable to access the only sugar mill in the locality, the Bagaha Sugar Mill, some 40 kms away in a precarious terrain and in retaliation to exploitative mill owner keeping payment pending for two or three years - small guror jaggery making units have cropped up in an around the villages.
As these villages are located near the core forest area, extraction of fuelwood is easy and is used in abundance to process the sugarcane juice to gur. However, these small-scaleunits, often produce inferior quality jaggery, which has less market value and poor consumption potential. Instead, it is transported to Nepal and also sold in the Indian market to prepare liquor. While the Tharu of Don replace paddy with sugarcane to earn more from their land, many now face food shortages and have become dependent on either government rations or village granaries.
As night fell, I left Phulvati’s charming cottage adorned with posters of Lord Krishna alongside Jesus Christ and motifs in English, which read ‘welcome’ and ‘Prem’. Juxtaposed against habitations beyond the forest boundary, such inclusions seemed out of place. Perhaps the linkages of these groups need further exploration.
For a youtube link of the story please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjNlenb2D34
Forests of Don
The Bihar State and Central forest officers have implemented several eco development, entry level, activities within the Forests of Don to promote the equation between the foresters and the people. Providing potable water through tube wells, street lighting through solar technology, sterilisation programmes and organizing health camps, the officials here have, to an extent, won the trust of the forest dwellers.
Fig: A view of the village | Although several amenities have been provided by the Bihar State and Central forest officers, the Tharu are skeptical about the intent of the government.
The Tharu, who form the prominent tribal group here are however skeptical about the intent of the government. With displacement from the core areas in the offing, Tharu are tight lipped about what their rights would entail. As H K Rai, Assistant Conservator of Forest, Valmiki Tiger Project, claims, “In a recent meeting with the Tharu of Naurangia, deep in the heart of the core forest of Don, I found their representatives uncommunicative and their responses skewed. We are not here to forcefully displace anyone, but freeing the core area will enable greater conservation measures.”
Understanding, he feels, is the key to protection. “They have to feel that this is their resource -exploiting it continually through increased population pressure will hardly leave much a forest to conserve,” he reiterates.
The officers are apprehensive about the protection of wildlife here, with unprecedented population growth in the recognised revenue villages that lie in the heart of these forest lands. “We strictly prohibit any fishing, trapping or hunting activities,” added V Sinha, Forest Range Officer at Harnatand.
The buffer zone they say will be a better option for such habitation, where they can still be part of the forest and at the same time allow conservation measures to bear fruit. “In the two years of my tenure, I have conducted various core area programmes such as undergrowth clearance, but I haven’t spotted a tiger yet, although I have chanced upon other predators,” pointed out Sinha.
Surprisingly one cannot even spot groups of herbivores, abundantly visible in other forests of the terai, such as Rajaji and Corbett National Park. Crime records and poor law and order situation have also inhibited the development of this wildlife zone, with locals rarely venturing in to forest lands and tourist strength down to a zero. “After the advent of the SSB (SashastraSeemaBal) along the border, crime rates as well as poaching are down – but Maoist insurgencies spreading over the Nepal border cannot be ruled out,” adds Rai.